Vancouver Canucks get revenge against Stanley Cup winner

Who would have thought that the loss of centre Ryan Kesler would lead to an improved performance by the Vancouver Canucks?

Last night, the team played one of its better games of the season, avenging last year's playoff loss to the Los Angeles Kings with a convincing 5-2 victory.

Mason Raymond filled in at centre, scoring a goal and an assist against the defending Stanley Cup champions. This matched the output of linemate Jannik Hansen.

Raymond ended the night at plus three.

The Sedin line also played an outstanding game, with Daniel scoring once and Henrik and Alex Burrows each notching two assists.

Defenceman Dan Hamuis opened the scoring at 3:43 of the first period and the final Canuck goal was an empty-netter by Chris Higgings with just 23 seconds left in the game.

Justin Williams and Jordan Nolan scored for the Kings.

Cory Schneider turned aside 28 shots on his way to the win. KIngs goalie Jonathan Quick allowed four goals on 23 shots. 

The Canucks are comfortably atop the Northwest Division with 26 points in 20 games.

Tonight, they are in Calgary to face the Flames, who are at the bottom of the division standings with 18 points in 19 games.